The monopoly tycoons of the 19th century traditionally did their wheeling and dealing at exclusive restaurants, cleverly concealing the fact that they still live with their moms. Mirror their affectations of wealth without mentioning your hot-air-balloon condo thanks to today’s Groupon: for $25, you get $50 worth of upscale dining and drinks at Briarhurst Manor Estate, housed in a 19th-century Manitou Springs mansion nestled at the base of striking Pikes Peak.

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, Briarhurst Manor Estate offers a memorably luxe culinary experience without unwieldy tables molded from caviar and gold bars. The menu introduces taste buds to fine appetizers, soups, salads, and four-course dinners served with a variety of breads, amuse-bouches, Cara’s Salad, intermezzo, and accompaniments. Rev appetite engines with salmon lox served with peppered cream-cheese crostinis ($8) or escargot ($10). Then sup on rabbit Catalan with tomato-onion brasige and saffron broth ($32), braised bison short ribs with jalapeño-apricot-honey glaze ($39), or the salmon filet with tomato emulsion ($28). An extensive drink menu featuring dozens of sipping options propels conversation and lubricates rusty knight-armor hinges.

Amid the breathtaking estate grounds of a finely grained pink-sandstone manor, Briarhurst's elaborately decorated dining abode offers a memorably lush dining experience with attentive service, plenty of free parking, and surprisingly perceptive palm readings. Things that seem impossible on an empty stomach, such as skydiving straight into space, convincing the boss to trade spouses, and turning a recurring dream into reality by going back to high school and passing that chemistry exam pantsless, slide into the realm of the certain once patrons have devoured a Briarhurst Manor Estate meal. Call to make a reservation or parachute in.

This Groupon is not valid with other specials or promotions. Only one Groupon may be used per table.

Reviews

The Gazette praises Briarhurst Manor's atmosphere and sustenance, and 10Best lists the restaurant as one of Colorado Springs' best:

• Stepping into the ornate, wood-paneled foyer of this 1886 Manitou Springs mansion feels a bit like waltzing into a game of Clue…You almost expect to overhear Col. Mustard and Mrs. Peacock surreptitiously murmuring something about Professor Plum over ruddy glasses of Beaujolais. Naturally, the staff puts on mystery dinners, where diners solve a classic whodunit. – Nathaniel Glen, The Gazette
• The fairytale historic 19th century pink sandstone Manor house of Dr. William Bell, built on the banks of Fountain Creek in Manitou Springs features Colorado Cuisine at its finest and most elegant. – 10Best

OpenTable diners give Briarhurst Manor a near-perfect 4.5 stars, and TripAdvisors give it 3.5 owl eyes:

• From the moment we entered until the very end everything was great. They have an excellent wine list. We tried the Foie Gras for our appetizer and it was the best I have ever had anywhere. – ColoradoLady123, TripAdvisor
• I love the fact that I don't have to know wine to get a great glass at Briarhurst. I tell the waiter what I'm looking for and there it is! – OpenTable user who dined on 04/16/2010